Paralympic and world champion Qu Zimo of China has cemented his place among the world’s sporting elite, earning a nomination for the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards in the “Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability” category. This recognition comes after an extraordinary season that saw the 23-year-old dominate the para badminton scene.
Qu’s nomination is a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication. He achieved a remarkable feat at the NSDF ROYAL BEACH BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024, securing gold medals in all three of his events: singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. This incredible performance was followed by another double gold triumph at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, solidifying his status as a leading figure in wheelchair badminton.
His exceptional achievements were also acknowledged by the Badminton World Federation (BWF), who awarded him the “Men’s Para Badminton Player of the Year” at the end of last season.
Qu Zimo is one of six outstanding athletes nominated for the Laureus award. He faces stiff competition from:
- Catherine Debrunner (Switzerland, Para athletics)
- Tokito Oda (Japan, Wheelchair tennis)
- Teresa Perales (Spain, Para swimming)
- Matt Stutzman (USA, Para archery)
- Jiang Yuyan (China, Para swimming)
The Laureus World Sports Awards celebrate the pinnacle of sporting achievement, recognizing excellence across various disciplines. The categories include “Sportsman of the Year,” “Sportswoman of the Year,” “Team of the Year,” “Breakthrough of the Year,” “Comeback of the Year,” “Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability,” “Action Sportsperson of the Year,” and the Laureus Sport for Good Award, which highlights initiatives promoting equity and inclusion through sport.
The Laureus team will celebrate each nominee in the lead-up to the awards ceremony. Qu Zimo’s nominee day is scheduled for April 5, 2025. The winners of the prestigious awards will be announced on April 21, 2025.
Qu Zimo’s nomination highlights the growing recognition of para-athletes and their remarkable achievements. His dedication and success serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide, showcasing the power of sport to transcend limitations.
